Dhaba Style Matar Paneer

Dhaba Style Matar Paneer is a popular Indian curry dish made with green peas (matar) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It is known for its robust and rustic flavors, similar to the dishes served in roadside dhabas (Indian roadside eateries). Here's a recipe to make Dhaba Style Matar Paneer:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup paneer, cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cream (optional)
• Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
5. Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to combine the spices with the tomato mixture.
6. Add the green peas (matar) to the pan and mix well, ensuring they are coated with the spice mixture.
7. Add a little water, cover the pan, and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are cooked and tender.
8. Add the paneer cubes to the pan and gently mix them with the peas and spices. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes.
9. If desired, add fresh cream to the curry for a rich and creamy texture. Mix well.
10. Simmer the curry for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together and the paneer absorbs the spices.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves and remove from heat.

Serve the Dhaba Style Matar Paneer hot with roti, naan, or rice. The creamy tomato-based gravy combined with the sweetness of green peas and the softness of paneer creates a delightful and satisfying curry. Enjoy the flavors of this dhaba-inspired dish right at home.